The tree is believed to have been planted around the Yayoi period, making it one of the oldest living cedars in the country.
It is commonly referred to by locals as a 'divine tree' due to its immense size and longevity.
The trunk circumference of 14.8 meters places it among the top rank of large trees in Japan by volume.
The cedar is a designated Natural Monument by the Nagano Prefectural Board of Education.
The tree sustained damage during a major typhoon in 1959, leading to extensive restoration and support measures for its branches.
Tsukize no Osugi is a massive Japanese cedar tree located in Neba Village, Nagano Prefecture, estimated to be approximately 1,800 years old. Standing at a height of 35 meters with a trunk circumference of 14.8 meters, it is recognized as a Natural Monument of Nagano Prefecture. The tree is considered one of the largest cedars in Japan and is deeply revered in local Shinto tradition. It is situated on the grounds of a site that features a small shrine, reflecting its historical significance to the local community. The tree's root system spans a significant area, showing clear signs of centuries of growth and adaptation to the mountain environment. Its preservation is managed by local conservation efforts to protect the aging wood and surrounding soil.
From the front path looking upward to capture the full scale of the trunk and the canopy against the sky.
Bring insect repellent, as the surrounding forested area in Neba Village can be dense with mosquitoes.
Ensure your footwear is suitable for walking on uneven, sloped, or potentially muddy forest paths.
The area is quiet and small; combine this visit with other nature trails in the Shimoina District to make a full day trip.
Avoid visiting during heavy rain or wind, as the forest paths become slippery and the tree's condition makes the area sensitive to severe weather.
Maintain a quiet volume out of respect for the site's status as a local shrine area; do not touch or climb the tree trunk.
